I can't say with any certainty what's going on with you, but I can tell you from experience to trust your own gut.

If you've have Hashi's and are already being treated for thyroid issues - it would be in your best interest to get those thyroid tests done.

you'll want to order:
Free T3
Free T4
and they'll do a TSH without you asking

Get a physician to do it, or you can get them done yourself from any labcorp area by ordering online.

Once you have those tests...come on back and we can tell you what's up thyroid wise.

Most people feel well with a Free T4 and Free T3 above 75% - tsh won't tell you much, but it can tell you if you have a tsh worshipping doctor.

You should go see a rheumatologist. All the joints that you listed are consistent with RA. Hashi is an autoimmune disease. Your immune system can cause other autoimmune disease. Many people that have RA also have Hashi.

Sharon, I recommend to get all of your hormones checked.
You might consider seeing a naturopath to be able to help you with a more natural remedy rather than drug-addicting medicines prescribed by M.D.s

I hope you find a remedy soon.


There is lots of info on 5-HTP online.

http://naturalmedicinejournal.com/journal/2011-10/many-uses-5-htp

I HAD body aches but now I take vitamins that contain 5-HTP which take away migraines, aches from stress.


The Many Uses of 5-HTP

Bottom Line Monograph

By Natural Standard


About The Author



This information is based on a systematic review of scientific literature edited and peer-reviewed by contributors to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration (www.naturalstandard.com).



Natural Standard Bottom Line Monograph, Copyright 2013 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. You should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.



While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.





Related Terms
5-Hydroxytroptophan, Griffonia plant seed extract, Griffonia simplicifolia, L-5-HTP, L-5-hydroxytroptophan, Natrol 5-HTP, Natural Factors 5-HTP, oxitriptan, serotonin, Tript-OH, tryptophan.
Select combination products: Gabadone (5-HTP, tryptophan, and other amino acids), Nature's Way 5-HTP (5-HTP, vitamin B6, vitamin C), Natural Factors Tranquil Sleep (5-HTP, melatonin, L-theanine).
Note: 5-HTP should not to be confused with L-tryptophan.

Background
5-HTP is the precursor of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Commercially available 5-HTP is obtained from the seeds of the plant Griffonia simplicifolia.
5-HTP has been suggested as a treatment for many conditions. Some research supports the use of 5-HTP in treating cerebellar ataxia, headache, depression, psychiatric disorders, and fibromyalgia, and as an appetite suppressant or weight loss agent. There is insufficient scientific evidence to support the use of 5-HTP for any other medical condition.
5-HTP may cause gastrointestinal disturbances, mood disturbances, seizure, or abnormal blood counts. Some side effects might result from contaminants in 5-HTP products.

Scientific Evidence

These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

Cerebellar ataxia

5-HTP has been observed to have benefits in some people who have difficulty standing or walking because of cerebellar ataxia. However, current evidence is mixed.

Grade: B

Obesity

Studies suggest that 5-HTP may reduce eating behaviors, lessen caloric intake, and promote weight loss in obese individuals.

Grade: B

Alcoholism (withdrawal symptoms)

Early research suggests that 5-HTP may lessen alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Further research is needed before a conclusion can be made.

Grade: C

Anxiety

Although 5-HTP has been proposed as a possible treatment for anxiety disorders, sufficient human evidence to make a firm conclusion is lacking.

Grade: C

Depression

The results of numerous studies in humans suggest that 5-HTP may aid in the treatment of depression. However, it is not known whether 5-HTP is as effective as commonly prescribed antidepressant drugs.

Grade: C

Down's syndrome

Preliminary research on 5-HTP in children with Down's syndrome has yielded insignificant results. Further research is necessary.

Grade: C

Fibromyalgia

There is a small amount of research evaluating the use of 5-HTP for fibromyalgia. Early evidence suggests that 5-HTP may reduce the number of tender points, anxiety, and the intensity of pain, and may improve sleep, fatigue, and morning stiffness. Further research is needed before a conclusion can be made.

Grade: C

Headache

Several studies, in both children and adults, suggest that 5-HTP may be effective in reducing the severity and frequency of headaches, including tension headaches and migraines. Further research is needed.

Grade: C

Mood

In early research, 5-HTP lacked an effect on mood in healthy, young subjects. However, in this population, 5-HTP may impair decision-making. Further well-designed research is needed.

Grade: C

Neurologic disorders

5-HTP has been studied in panic disorder and various neurologic disorders. Additional clinical research is needed before conclusions can be made.

Great post by energylost and others - rheumy might be in order since auto-immune diseases tend to flock together.